Golar Returns to Black & Veatch and Keppel Shipyard to convert third LNG vessel and develop FLNG in West Africa, expanding global reach
Black & Veatch’s patented PRICO® technology and engineering and procurement capabilities are expected to play another major role in floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) technology, this time for BP’s field development in West Africa. Known for its competitive performance in FLNG developments, Black & Veatch is teaming with Keppel Shipyard Limited (Keppel Shipyard) to convert a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, the Gimi, into a floating liquefaction facility.
This project continues the close partnership between Keppel Shipyard and Golar LNG (Golar). Black & Veatch has grown its relationship with Golar since 2011, going from concept to front-end design to design and delivery of FLNG vessel conversions. In 2014, Golar awarded the EPC contract to Keppel Shipyard and Black & Veatch to convert the Hilli Episeyo, a 125,000 cubic meter LNG carrier, to an FLNGV.
FLNG solutions can be a cost-effective and faster-delivering alternative to traditional onshore facilities, which is particularly crucial in natural gas’ current low-price environment. Successful commissioning of the FLNG Hilli Episeyo offshore Cameroon will also support market confidence in converted FLNG solutions.
“This partnership with Golar and Keppel is a direct reflection of the industry experience, leadership and value that Black & Veatch brings to complex offshore conversion projects. FLNG can help fill the world’s growing demand for energy by offering a faster, more cost-effective solution,” said Bob Germinder, Black & Veatch Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Floating Oil & Gas Solutions.
“Black & Veatch’s PRICO® technology continues to allow us to provide competitive liquefaction solutions to our clients who are looking to develop and monetize their natural gas assets,” said Iain Ross, Golar CEO.
BP holds a majority interest and operatorship in the Greater Tortue/Ahmeyin project development located offshore of Mauritania and Senegal. Proceeding with front end engineering and design (FEED) on the provision of the Gimi FLNG vessel will support Phase 1A of BP’s development plans for the region, which also includes development of a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) unit. The vessel conversion is contingent on Project FID by BP, expected end 2018.
The work scope for Keppel Shipyard and Black & Veatch to convert the Gimi is similar to that of the Golar Hilli Episeyo. Black & Veatch will provide its licensed PRICO® liquefaction technology and global engineering and procurement capabilities while Keppel Shipyard will provide the marine systems and all of the conversion-related construction services.
Editor's Notes:
- The GIMI is a 125,000 cubic meter LNG carrier.
- The GIMI conversion will be built to relevant marine classification society rules and regulations.
- Black & Veatch has a record of reliable performance with 25 plants around the world featuring PRICO® technology.
- PRICO® is an innovative process to liquefy natural gas, making it available for transport via ocean tanker or truck. The process uses a single-mixed refrigerant loop for natural gas liquefaction. The process provides several key advantages, including:
- A simplified refrigeration system that requires minimal equipment and a compact process that makes it ideal for offshore liquefaction
- Low capital and operating expenditure
- Simplified control and maintenance.
About Keppel Shipyard
Keppel Shipyard is a subsidiary of Keppel Offshore & Marine (Keppel O&M), a wholly-owned company of Keppel Corporation. Keppel Shipyard is the trusted industry name for the repair, conversion and upgrading of a diverse range of vessels, and a global leader in the conversion of Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO), Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) and Floating Storage and Re-gasification Units (FSRU), as well as the fabrication and installation of turrets and mooring systems, and topside process modules. As a group, Keppel O&M is also a global leader in offshore rig design, construction and repair, and specialized shipbuilding. Its near market, near customer strategy is bolstered by a global network of yards and offices in 15 countries across the Asia Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, Brazil, the Caspian Sea, Middle East and the North Sea regions. Integrating the experience and expertise of its yards worldwide, Keppel O&M aims to be the provider of choice and partner for solutions for the offshore and marine industry. For more information, please visit www.keppelom.com.
About Golar LNG
With over 40 years of experience, Golar is a leading independent owner and operator of LNG carriers and FSRUs, and a pioneer developer of FLNG vessels.For more information, please visit www.golarlng.com.
Black & Veatch Media Contact Information:
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About Black & Veatch
Black & Veatch is an employee-owned, global leader in building critical human infrastructure in Energy, Water, Telecommunications and Government Services. Since 1915, we have helped our clients improve the lives of people in over 100 countries through consulting, engineering, construction, operations and program management. Our revenues in 2018 were US$3.5 billion. Follow us on social media.
